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Show 5 iTIMES June 28, 2007 Larry Searles, 75th Logistics Readiness Squadron train operator, completes a safety clearance check to make sure no pedestrians or vehicles are crossing the tracks before entering a munitions area. All aboard! The 526th ICBM Systems Wing is responsible for inception-to-retirement integrated weapons system management of Minuteman and Peacekeeper weapon systems. But without the help of 75th Logistics Readiness Squadron, it would be next to impossible for the ICBM wing to complete its important mission. Intercontinental ballistic missiles are too heavy to move on the roads, so they must be moved by train. While the missiles are being moved on base, it's up to the 75 LRS to get them where they are going using their own set of trains. (Allphotos by Alex R. Lloyd) (Above) Wayne Hadley, 75th Logistics Readiness Squadron train operator, waits to enter a munitions area to prepare equipment to be sent to another location by Union Pacific. (Above right) Mr. Searles moves cargo through a munitions location. The base receives and ships equipment by train twice a month. Hill Air Force Base is one of only three bases in the military to use trains. (Below right) This train is moving an engine for an intercontinental ballistic missile. Along with equipment, trains have three-man teams to monitor safety items at all times. (Above) USAF 1864 is the base's 100-ton train. The 100-ton train is moving through the Gentry Munitions Area. USAF 1864 is the only train currently in use by the base. (Right) Mr. Hadley performs a safety check to make sure the train is connected to the trailer that is moving an ICBM engine. o•o o•o omo o•o |